Cabo Verde
Boa Vista offers distinct experiences for different times of the year. Consider these seasons when planning your visit:
Pack lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather. Bring a Light jacket or sweater for breezy evenings.
Match your visit to your preferred activities:
Wind/Kite Surfing: November to May for strong winds. Beach relaxation: Year-round suitability. Loggerhead Turtle Watching (Nesting): June to October, peak August/September. Whale Watching (Humpbacks): March to May. Hiking/Exploring: November to April for cooler conditions.
Nov - May (Strong Winds)
Consistent, robust winds for all levels of enthusiasts.
Higher prices, more people around main spots.
June - Oct (Peak Aug-Sep)
Unique opportunity to witness nesting and hatching.
Hottest months, occasional rain showers.
March - May (Humpbacks)
Best chance to observe migrating humpback whales.
Winds still strong, some tours might be weather-dependent.
Cabo Verde has updated its entry policy. Many nationalities, including those from the European Union, United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and various African countries, do not need a visa for stays up to 30 days. Instead, an EASE (Efficient Automatic Security Entry) pre-registration and payment of an Airport Security Tax (TSA) is current practice. Complete this process online at least 5 days before travel. Verify your specific nationality's requirements well before your trip. Always check the Official EASE portal or your country's foreign office advice. For other nationalities, a visa still has application. Consult the nearest Cabo Verdean embassy or consulate, or the Official EASE portal for accurate information. Plan this step early in your trip preparation.
You present specific documents upon entry: Passport: Your passport validity must extend for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Cabo Verde. EASE Pre-registration: Bring confirmation of your TSA payment and pre-registration details if these apply to your nationality. Return/Onward Ticket: Immigration officials may request proof of your planned departure from Cabo Verde. Proof of Accommodation: Have a confirmation of your hotel booking or an invitation letter ready. Sufficient Funds: You show proof of adequate financial means to cover your stay.
Approximately 3,400 CVE (around €31 / $35 USD) per person.
Online via the EASE platform before arrival. This is the recommendation.
Possible at Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC), but queues may occur.
Proceed through immigration control at BVC. Officials check passport and EASE pre-registration or visa.
No general special permits for standard tourism. Tours handle local permissions.
The currency in Boa Vista is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). The escudo links to the Euro at a fixed rate (€1 = 110.265 CVE). Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas, and many establishments list prices in both CVE and EUR. United States Dollars are generally not accepted directly. Exchange currency at banks or ATMs. You find ATMs in Sal Rei and at the airport. Carry small denominations of CVE for street vendors, aluguers, and smaller shops. Many places are cash-only. Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) have acceptance at larger hotels, restaurants, and some shops. Cash remains common for smaller purchases, local markets, and transport like aluguers. Carrying a Travel money belt offers secure storage for cash and cards.
Your daily budget for Boa Vista varies based on your travel approach:
Understand common expenses:
Before traveling to Boa Vista, review your vaccination status with a travel health professional.
Travel insurance has strong recommendations. Verify your policy covers medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Compare policies from reputable providers like World Nomads, SafetyWing, or Insubuy. A comprehensive Travel insurance policy forms a part of your travel planning.
